A field of pregnant sheep could abort their lambs after they were chased by a dog that had entered a restricted area of a park.

Police were called just over a week ago to Panshanger Park, near Hertford, after a dog entered a field south of the River Mimram, which was closed to the public due to it housing pregnant ewes in the lead up to lambing season.

The dog chased the pregnant ewes leaving them in distress.

Estates manager Michael Pendock said: “The sheep in that field were pregnant ewes and the distress from being chased by dogs could lead to them aborting their lambs.

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The injured sheep was taken to the Royal Veterinary College Farm Animal Clinical Centre for emergency treatment to treat multiple wounds.

This included having her tail amputated.

The attack left the sheep needing to have her tail amputated

Mr Pendock continued: “It is not the case that the public has a right to roam unrestricted over all areas.

“Incidents like this sheep attack highlight the need for the public to also respect the clear signage around the park explaining which areas they can enjoy freely so people, animals and wildlife can share the park safely.”

Dog walking in Panshanger Park

Keep your dog under control at all times

Always clean up after your dog and put any waste in the disposal bins

Please comply with all notices and warning signage in the park

Fencing and gates are there for your protection - please abide by them

The park is still managed for agricultural activities, wildlife and forestry.

Grazing is one of the preferred methods for grassland management in the park.

It is the best option ecologically as cyclical grazing allows a range of plants to thrive.

It is also a sustainable option as not only does it grow meat and wool but reduces the need for mowing and the environmental costs of diesel use in powering a tractor.

East Herts Police Chief Inspector Gerry McDonald said: “I would urged people, especially this time of year, to be extra vigilant and not let their dogs run away from them as ewes are pregnant and any interaction, however innocent minded, could cause the death of lambs.”

For more information about walking dogs in Panshanger Park click here.